I rent out my home every weekend; can I deduct the rental of a second home on my taxes?

[Jennifer1037]

Hi! I have been hosting for 9 years and my home has gotten popular enough that it is rented out most weekends. Since we need somewhere to stay, we now rent a small second home for when we are out. On my taxes, am I allowed to deduct any portion of the rent of the second  home since it is a necessary expense (either paying for rent or staying in a hotel while my home is being rented)? 

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Jennifer1037 I doubt it. If you were in the UK it would be a definite NO. Effectively you would be tax deducting your holidays. 

[Jennifer1037]

Thanks for the quick reply. I guess the difference is that I am not taking a vacation--I am essentially without a home during my rentals and need somewhere to sleep. Do you think that makes a difference? 

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Jennifer1037 No I don't. Another situation would be where you live in a rented house and then buy a place to Airbnb. You wouldn't be allowed to deduct your rent against the Airbnb profits.

[Jennifer1037]

Thanks! That's helpful

[JoEllen13]

@Jennifer1037 I would think it is a business expense - check with accountant for sure!  

[Jennifer1037]

Thanks!

[Lorna170]

@Jennifer1037  You need to talk to your accountant for clarification.  It is my view that this would not be a deduction.

[Rebecca]

Hi @Jennifer1037 👋

Did you get an answer to your question, or did any of the answers from Hosts below support you in finding an answer? If a Host did support you, it would be great if you can mark it as a 'best answer' so that it can support other Hosts who may visit the Community Center in the future. 

Looking forward to hearing from you. 😊